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Desuetude - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Desuetude refers to the state of something no longer being used or practiced, often due to neglect or obsolescence. It commonly describes outdated laws, customs, or traditions that have fallen into disuse.

desuetude

/ˈdɛswɪˌtud/ /dɪˈsjuːɪtjuːd/

Definition:

The state of disuse or inactivity; falling into obscurity.

Synonyms:

disuse, neglect, abandonment, obsolescence

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

use, activity, practice

Common Collocations:

fall into desuetude, laws in desuetude, customs in desuetude

Derivatives:

desuetudinary (rare), desuetudinous (rare)

Usage Tips:

Use "desuetude" to describe laws, customs, or practices no longer in active use but not formally abolished.

Common Phrases:

fall into desuetude, lapse into desuetude, laws in desuetude

Etymology:

From Latin "desuetudo," meaning "disuse," from "desuescere" (to disaccustom).

Examples:

  • 1. The old law fell into desuetude after decades of neglect.
  • 2. Many traditions have slipped into desuetude over time.
  • 3. The manual typewriter is now in desuetude due to modern technology.
  • 4. Legal scholars debated whether the statute was still valid or in desuetude.

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